Top military officers are now jostling for the position of Chief of Army Staff as Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja battles an undisclosed health issue abroad, according to sources who spoke with SaharaReporters.
This has triggered intense lobbying among politicians and influential retired generals, with many eager to succeed him.
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Lagbaja, born on 28 February 1968 in Ilobu, Osun State, was appointed Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023. He officially assumed office on 23 June 2023, succeeding Faruk Yahaya. However, Lagbaja’s recent health crisis has raised concerns, and senior military officers are now vying for the coveted position.
On Tuesday, SaharaReporters exclusively revealed that the Army General had been flown abroad by family members for medical treatment. Sources described the ailment as “strange” and revealed that Lagbaja had not been seen at Army headquarters or public functions for weeks.
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One source said, “The Chief of Army Staff hasn’t been seen in any official capacity for the last three weeks. I can confirm he was taken to a hospital, and his family later arranged for him to receive treatment abroad.”
Another senior officer added, “He missed the October 1 Independence Day parade, which was unusual. We’ve also noticed that the 2024 promotion list, completed weeks ago, is yet to be signed by him. Some officers due for promotion are beginning to grumble.”
Lagbaja’s condition reportedly worsened, with sources stating that he is bedridden and unable to communicate effectively. “He can no longer hear properly, just like someone with hearing loss. We are praying for his recovery, but it’s a serious illness,” one insider said.
The Chief of Army Staff’s uncertain health status has intensified lobbying among senior officers, particularly Major Generals from courses 40 and 41. Many are said to be lobbying top politicians, traditional rulers, and influential military figures to secure the position.
“If Lagbaja’s condition doesn’t improve, the President will have no choice but to replace him,” another source said. “The lobbying for his position has already started behind the scenes.”
Despite mounting speculation, the Army’s spokesperson, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, insisted that Lagbaja is only on leave. “He is entitled to some rest after working so hard for the country,” Nwachukwu said. “People need to understand that soldiers make enormous sacrifices. For example, I didn’t take leave for almost seven years, except to bury my mum.”
He continued, “It’s not unusual for an officer, even a top-ranking one, to take leave or travel for medical check-ups. Must someone be sick before going for a medical evaluation?
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